When most people think of stage 4 lung cancer, they assume it’s the end of the road. But thanks to the advances in immunotherapy, one elderly patient from Gurgaon has proved that even aggressive cancer at a late stage can be managed—with a good quality of life.
At Paras Hospitals, Gurgaon, a 79-year-old man diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 2016 has defied the odds. Despite the usual belief that patients with such advanced cancer have a survival span of one year or less, this patient is now living a healthy, active life and is preparing to celebrate his 80th birthday next year!
Journey from Wheelchair to Wellness
Initially, the patient underwent several rounds of chemotherapy, but it didn’t work. He was physically weak, confined to a wheelchair, and battling not just lung cancer but also a history of prostate cancer and Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD).
That’s when Chairman of Paras Cancer Centre, introduced a relatively new approach in India at the time—immunotherapy. Unlike chemotherapy, which kills cancer cells directly, immunotherapy boosts the body’s own immune system to fight the disease more effectively.
After just a few weeks of starting immunotherapy, the patient could walk again. Over time, his sessions reduced from every two weeks to just once every two months. Minor side effects like skin rashes and thyroid issues were quickly managed by the hospital team.
The Power of Personalized Care
The patient’s story is a powerful example of how modern cancer care is shifting towards personalized treatment options. Immunotherapy doesn’t work for everyone, but in this case, it was life changing. He is now living independently, playing golf, doing regular exercise, and attending his check-ups on his own.
The chairperson emphasized that this case shows how advanced lung cancer can still be treated successfully, especially when surgery is not an option. The right treatment, timely diagnosis, and a supportive healthcare team can transform outcomes, even in the most difficult situations.
A Message of Hope
The patient, who has never smoked and led a disciplined lifestyle, said he never imagined such a healthy and fulfilling life after being diagnosed with two different cancers.
This inspiring case reminds us that age or stage of cancer should not limit hope. With advanced treatments like immunotherapy, cancer care is no longer just about survival—it’s about living well.
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